What Diameter is Needed for the Tube in this Thermodynamics Problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the diameter of a tube required for oil flow in a thermodynamics problem. The oil has a density of 850 kg/m³ and flows at a velocity of 20 m/s, with a mechanical energy rate of 60,000 J/s. The equation used for the calculation involves the term P/ρ, where participants clarify whether to use absolute or gauge pressure. The conclusion is that the choice between absolute and gauge pressure results in a negligible diameter difference of approximately 20 mm.

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Homework Statement


Oil with a density of 850 kg/m^3 is flowing at a velocity of 20 m/s at the atmospheric pressure in a horizontal tube elevated at 20m above the sea level. Please determine the diameter of the tube if the rate of mechanical energy for oil is 60000 J/s


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


dE/dt = \frac{ρv∏D<sup>2</sup>}{4} * (\frac{P}{ρ} + \frac{20<sup>2</sup>}{2} + 9.81 * 20) = 60,000

Now, my question is, P/ρ. I was told that it is at atmospheric pressure, but the pressure I use for that equation, is it absolute or gage?


EDIT: It's not coming out properly, I just need to know if the P in P/ρ is gage or absolute or should it matter? I did it both ways and got a diameter difference of about 20mm
 
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it won't make any difference on gage or absolute
 
Last edited:

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